Rob Machado Foundation Works to Protect the Environment

It’s no small wonder, Rob Machado (legendary pro-surfer) formed the Rob Machado Foundation, an organization that contributes greatly toward environmental causes. In fact, one of their main focus is on reducing single-use plastic in schools.

Gabriela Aoun, Programs Manager at Rob Machado Foundation says, "The water station program began when Rob noticed that the elementary school he had attended, and that his children then attended, still had the same water fountains as when he was a student there. He asked the some of the students if they used those fountains and they scrunched their faces in disgust, complaining that the water tasted bad. Rob noticed that kids were buying water or sugary drinks in single-use plastic bottles. The whole notion seemed crazy to him - for kids to have to buy water, a basic necessity. The refill stations are great because the kids are happy to have free access to clean, good-tasting drinking water, and by bringing their own reusable bottle to fill up, they're saving countless single-use plastic water bottles from entering the landfill, or even worse, our waterways. It's a win for the students' health and for the environment."

Those who are concerned about the health of our ocean should pay special attention to the statistics. It is startling to know that enough plastic is thrown away each year to circle the earth four times. According to ecowatch.com, Americans throw away 35 billion plastic water bottles every year.

In addition, The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is located in the North Pacific Gyre off the coast of California is the largest ocean garbage site in the world. This floating mass of plastic is twice the size of Texas, with plastic pieces outnumbering sea life six to one. Those who may not know, it takes 500-1,000 years for plastic to degrade. The Rob Machado Foundation focuses on reducing the prevalence of single-use plastic and on enabling children to lead healthy, eco-friendly lives. The Rob Machado Foundation donates water filling stations to schools so that students have access to a clean, healthful drink option without having to purchase single-use plastic water bottles.

The Rob Machado Foundation has also provided secure, covered trash cans to Seaside and Cardiff state beaches. These covered trash cans prevent seagulls from taking trash which may end up being dropped and severely polluting the ocean water. Rob Machado Foundation also started recycling systems at schools. They provide durable recycling bins in high-need spaces which includes local schools’ athletic fields.